Designed using the Mi-8 airframe, the Mi-17 was fitted with the larger engines, rotors, and transmission developed for the Mi-14, along with fuselage improvements for heavier loads. Optional engines for 'hot and high' conditions are the 1545 kW (2070 shp) Isotov TV3-117VM. Recent exports to nations such as China for use in high mountains have the new Klimov VK-2500 engine with FADEC control.